We all know the thrill of a salary increase. That moment when the email arrives or the conversation happens—it feels rewarding, exciting, and validating. For a few days, maybe even a few weeks, there’s a glow of satisfaction. But soon, life settles back into routine. The bills get paid, the novelty fades, and the happiness tied to that number on a paycheck quietly slips into the background.
That’s because salary increases, while important, are temporary boosters. They make us happy once a year, but they don’t carry us through the everyday rhythm of work. What really sustains us—day after day, week after week—is the feeling of being valued.
When someone recognizes your effort, appreciates your ideas, or simply acknowledges your presence, it does something deeper than money ever can. It says: you matter here. It reminds you that your contribution is seen, that you’re more than just a role or a title, and that your work is shaping something bigger.
Feeling valued turns workplaces into communities. It transforms tasks into purpose and challenges into opportunities. It fuels motivation, sparks creativity, and builds loyalty—not because of what’s deposited in a bank account, but because of what’s deposited in the heart.
So yes, a raise is wonderful. But what truly keeps people happy, engaged, and thriving every single day is knowing that they are respected, appreciated, and valued. Recognition costs nothing, but it can mean everything.
A raise lifts your year. Feeling valued lifts your life!
Kenrick Vaz 